Changes and Continuities in Intergenerational Fathering in Türkiye

Abstract

This qualitative study examined intergenerational transmission of fathering in Türkiye, a Majority World context, with particular attention to the socioeconomic status (SES) characteristics. In exploring the intergenerational transmission of fathering in Türkiye, this study was informed by Greenfield's social change theories (2009, 2016) and Kağıtçıbaşı's family change theories (2007, 2012), both of which emphasise the impact of major demographic shifts in family dynamics. This study employs a qualitative research design, drawing on interviews with 29 Turkish fathers (aged 28 to 44) of young children. Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed that being a moral guide was a consistently upheld fathering role, predominantly endorsed by fathers from lower SES families. In contrast, autonomy support and open expression of affection were two sustained parenting practices that were more pronounced among non-low SES fathers. A small subset of fathers sustained negative parenting practices such as being overly restrictive, permissive, or indifferent. Compared to their own fathers, contemporary Turkish fathers are adopting a more communicative, engaged, and supportive fathering style, with this trend being particularly evident among non-low SES fathers. These changes and continuities in fathering were analysed and discussed in relation to various mechanisms and expectations of fatherhood across different SES groups.